How to Protect Older Adults Against Scams

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How to Protect Seniors Against Scams in Edmonton, AB

One of the realities of getting older involves becoming vulnerable to scams. Unscrupulous people often take advantage of seniors who have cognitive difficulties or are unaware of changing technologies. Here are a few steps you can take to keep your aging loved one safe from common scams.

Discuss Being Wary of Strange Calls

Many scammers claim to be employees from the IRS or other governmental organizations, and they intimidate older adults into paying supposed fines. Reassure your loved one that the government will never contact him or her through phone calls and ask for heavy penalties. If strange calls become persistent, it might be a good idea to unlist your parent’s phone number or give him or her a cellphone to block unfamiliar callers.

Scams are just one of the many issues individuals may encounter in their golden years. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality at-home care. Edmonton families trust in Home Care Assistance to help their elderly loved ones age in place safely and comfortably.

Avoid Sending Money Using Unsafe Methods

There is a wide range of scams that target the elderly, ranging from callers claiming to be family members in trouble to emails asking for charitable donations. Seniors can quickly spot scams if the caller asks for money to be sent to him or her through gift cards, cash reload cards, or money wires. A real business or government agency will allow multiple payment methods.

Talk About Social Media

Social media is still a relatively new concept for many seniors, making it a common place for scams. It can be helpful to have a chat with your parents and remind them that social media is filled with people who use fake identities and have ulterior motives. Encourage your loved one to be cautious of strangers who want to befriend him or her online, and never share personal information someone could use in a later scam.

From using social media to performing basic housekeeping tasks, older adults may need help with an array of tasks. Every senior has different needs when aging in place. Some simply need occasional assistance with household chores, while others may be managing a serious illness and require more extensive 24-hour care. Edmonton seniors can count on Home Care Assistance to provide the in-home care they need and deserve.

Be Understanding and Reasonable

Many seniors who fall for scams are scared to talk about it because they feel ashamed or awkward about having given up money to a scammer. Try to avoid blaming or shaming your parent when you discuss these situations. Instead, empathize with your loved one and try to logically discuss how he or she could spot similar scams in the future.

Keep an Eye on Credit Cards and Bank Accounts

Consider viewing your parent’s bank and credit card statements regularly to spot unusual charges. Keeping an eye on your loved one’s bank accounts may help you stop a scam before it gets worse. If your elderly loved one is highly susceptible to scams, consider limiting his or her access to credit cards.

Protection from scams is not the only thing seniors need to enjoy a high quality of life. To successfully age in place, some seniors require the help of a professional caregiver. Families rely on Home Care Assistance Edmonton to provide caregivers who are expertly trained in various aspects of senior home care, including our holistic Balanced Care Method, an evidence-based program focused on healthy eating, regular exercise, mental and social stimulation, and calmness and purpose. To learn about our premier in-home care options, give us a call at (780) 490-7337 today.

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